Some of us are inexperienced, and have been sheltered from the real world by our parents and guardians. However, on September 11, 2001, children everywhere suddenly learned that the world is not always what it is portrayed to be. Poverty, hunger, and war are all different aspects of our society that we should be aware of. Therefore, what were the responses of individuals and communities across the globe as they prepared for the day that the world suddenly changed?
On the morning of September 11, 2002, I woke up and decided to listen to the news. Uplifting stories might prepare me for the day's events. One year ago, we might have seen horrific pictures such as planes colliding into high-rise buildings, people panicking and screaming helplessly on the streets, and others rushing to do whatever possible to aid those in trouble. Above all, today was a time for reflection and remembrance. Remembering the victims, families, and all who were involved with the unfortunate events. In Paris, large beams of light were reflected into the atmosphere to symbolize support for the United States. Australians gathered on beaches in red, white, and blue to create a large American flag with their bodies. Prayer services and vigils were held to remember the victims and to pay respect. Ceremonies took place and each victim who lost their life in the events had their name read aloud.
As the day advanced, I headed to my Religion class. After a few silent minutes of meditation and reflection, we opened a discussion about what we were feeling about the events one year ago. I believe that talking helps us to receive a greater understanding. I know it helped for me to vocalize what I was going through instead of locking it inside. Many people explained that they didn't think the world had changed or learned anything since 911. We discussed what people wanted to use the site of the World Trade Centers as. Some wanted it to be a memorial park for the victims, while others believed that a replica of a shopping mall would best suit the needs of the community.
One thing that I inputted into the conversation was the idea that on September 11, 2001, America and the rest of the world suddenly understood the life of a Middle Eastern individual. For this was only a short series of attacks -- think about having to go through duplicates of those disasters several times in a month, week, or even in one day.
However, throughout all of this, most children have stayed silent. Many still don't understand what occurred a year ago, and some won't for a few years to come until they are fully able to comprehend the intensity of what happened. I watched a special on a television show directed to showing what kids did to remember September 11. A whole community painted a fence and wrote inspirational words and phrases to remember those who lost their lives. In one city, a class got together to decorate a banner and hang it in their local fire-hall. They wanted to personally thank their city's firefighters for their enduring work and dedication. In New York City, students and their families who stayed near the World Trade Centers gathered up food items to donate to those people who were endlessly working on cleaning up the disaster area. At my school, a group of citizens designed a video to commemorate Americans and victims of 911 and played it on the daily announcements. Despite the loss and the pain, new hope emerged that brought unity and a sense of togetherness.
So what was Whyville thinking on September 11, 2002, a year after the events? All in all, it seemed pretty normal, but I did manage to listen into some conversations that dealt with the topic. Most of them dealt with Americans handling the situation overseas, since that is one of the main concerns today. Do you think there was hostility and animosity? There sure was, so I suppose that some of us have not entirely learned from the events. I did witness a few patriotic citizens who were dressed in stars and strips to show respect to the United States. When I asked where they were from, most of them answered Canada. I was curious about what was going through people's minds on September 11, the day of this article. So I asked around, and thankfully, people wanted to share their feelings. Here is what some had to say:
"I think it is stupid that how people are more concerned with how we should be united now, when we really should have been united before. I mean, we are supposed to be the home of the brave and we let our guard down and look what happened as a result of it."
-Angelbayb, from America.
"I was really worried that there might be another attack on the anniversary day. I was relived when it did not happen. I am wondering about the families and friends of the victims and how they are coping today because of all of the reminders."
-JJgirl, from Canada.
"I suppose I think the most about the victims and their families. Some people suspect that another terrorist attack will happen again, but no one is really sure."
-Dabomb7, from Canada.
As disdainful as it may sound to some, September 11th will go down in the history books just like the other horrific events that have happened in the past. It will be a reminder that there is still hostility present in the world. No one is sure what the future holds for us. In fact, that is the whole point of 'in the future'. We wouldn't learn anything if we knew what would happen to us every second. Nor would we be able to live life peacefully, because we would always be worrying about what is up ahead. 911 taught me that there is always hope in an unforgettable and hurtful situation. Think of those who were heroic and lost their lives to help other people. To be honest, that is something that makes me happy and proud. It should. Wonderful things emanated and many people survived the events. It is estimated that more than 15,000 people escaped the collapse of the WTC.
Below are pictures that I thought reflected the feelings of some people after the events. The first picture shows the Statue of Liberty and the American flag. A student created it after he or she (gender unknown) was told to draw something that reflected the events. The second picture shows rescue efforts that happened the day of the attacks one year ago. If you look closely, you will see that some of the people who were involved were ordinary citizens. The third picture is a snapshot of New York City's skyline. There are beams of light in reflection of the World Trade Centers and the purpose of the picture is to honour the victims of the attacks.
Although we, as students, may be considered insignificant to some, we have the power and potential to do good things. Thank you for taking the time to read this article, and best of luck in the future. September 11, 2001 will always be etched into our minds. Try to make the most out of it by any means possible.
As Always,
TIKE
